R&D Manager, Beverage Applications

About the role

A technically proficient, senior beverage scientist who manages a team of beverage application scientists and technicians while providing hands-on product development support in the applications lab.

Responsibilities

• Develop and grow a team of beverage application scientists and technicians, including managing the group’s project objectives and deadlines.
• Formulate beverage product concepts to demonstrate flavor creation innovation that supports customer requests, proactive growth opportunities, and market trends.
• Lead and participate in cross-functional teams for specific customer opportunities.
• Complete all assigned project tasks successfully and keep relevant stakeholders informed of project status, including R&D management, business development, sales, and customers.
• Interface with flavor chemistry, business development, sales, marketing, operations, purchasing, regulatory, and finance.
• Reverse engineer beverage formulations to deliver prototypes and concepts as required.
• Evaluate flavors, create new flavor blends, and make recommendations to satisfy project requirements.
• Evaluate samples through bench-top testing and structured sensory methods with the sensory science team.
• Provide technical expertise to customers through conference calls, video calls, in-person visits, and on-site working sessions.
• Travel to customer meetings and industry trade shows to represent Virginia Dare Applications.
• Follow all company safety and GMP practices; maintain a safe, neat, and organized work area.
• Adhere to all Virginia Dare policies and procedures.

Requirements

• BS or MS in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, or Engineering.
• Minimum 15 years in Beverage R&D.
• 3-5 years of experience managing technical team members.
• Experience with beverage categories: carbonated and still beverages, juices, sports drinks, energy shots, functional beverages, coffee and tea RTD beverages, alcoholic and zero-proof beverages.
• Hands-on experience with pilot plant equipment (Microthermics unit or equivalent).
• Proficient in general lab practices and skilled in applying and assessing flavors through taste and smell.
• Strong knowledge of formulation and ingredient functionality.
• Strong leadership skills and ability to deliver results within short timelines with limited direction and supervision.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and demonstrated creativity in product development.

Preferred Experience

• CPG commercialization and production scale-up.
• Aseptically processed, ready-to-drink (RTD) protein drinks and shakes.
• Dairy/plant-based creamers.
• RTM protein shakes.
• Dairy (yogurt, ice cream, milk).